Rafael Nadal has been grappling with fitness issues in recent times. The legendary Spanish player recently announced his withdrawal from the Laver Cup, stating that he wasn’t ready to participate in the two-team event. This isn’t the first event Nadal has pulled out of this year. He also decided not to compete in the US Open, making it the third Grand Slam in 2024 that the former world number one has skipped. Earlier in the year, he also missed the Australian Open and Wimbledon.
Nadal’s absence from major tournaments isn’t a new development. Last year, he also missed three Grand Slams due to similar fitness concerns. During that time, he announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2024 season. However, recent reports suggest that the iconic tennis star may make a comeback for the final round of the Davis Cup. This event could provide the perfect stage for him to conclude his illustrious career.
Another Spanish tennis sensation, Carlos Alcaraz, who is already regarded as one of the best players in men’s singles, alongside Italy’s Jannik Sinner and Serbia’s Novak Djokovic, expressed optimism about Nadal’s potential appearance in the final round of the Davis Cup. In a recent report, Alcaraz mentioned that he had heard Spain’s team coach, David Ferrer, express his dedication to Nadal if he was fit to play.
“I heard David say that if Rafa was there, he would go to the death with him,” Alcaraz revealed. “I hope I’m also physically fit enough to go to Malaga. It’s something I’m particularly excited about, and I hope Rafa will be there too.”